When importing events into The Events Calendar, duplicates can sometimes occur if event data is matched incorrectly or imported multiple times. Keeping your calendar clean and accurate ensures a better experience for your visitors. Below are some methods and tips to help avoid duplicate events during imports.

1. Preventing Duplicates Before Import

Use Unique Identifiers

• Each event should have a unique identifier such as an event ID, URL, or UID (for iCal feeds).
• If your source feed does not provide unique IDs, duplicates are more likely to occur.

Adjust Import Settings Thoughtfully

• If you install the Additional Options for Event Aggregator extension, there is an added option under WP Admin Dashboard → Events → Settings → Imports, where you can choose how previously imported events should be handled—whether to overwrite, preserve, or skip duplicates.

Stick with One Source

Import from the same feed or file consistently. Changing sources can cause the system to misidentify events and import duplicates.

Be Strategic with Scheduling

Avoid overly frequent imports. Frequent runs can increase duplicates, particularly if event data changes. A daily or weekly schedule usually strikes the right balance.

2. Managing Duplicates After Import

Despite preventive actions, duplicates may still appear. Here are options to clean them up:

Use the Official Cleanup Guide

Refer to the official knowledge base article, Deleting Duplicated Events After Import for step-by-step instructions, including WordPress snippet solutions to locate and remove duplicate events efficiently.

3. Automating Duplicate Handling with the Event Aggregator: Additional Options Extension

For enhanced control and automation during imports, the Event Aggregator: Additional Options extension offers robust capabilities. You can review and install this extension here:

What This Extension Adds:

Delete Duplicate/Removed Events for Scheduled Imports
Choose how to handle events that no longer appear in your new import:

• Do not delete duplicate/removed events
• Send them to trash
• Permanently delete them
  When imports run, the extension checks for any current or future events from previous imports (same source) and applies your chosen action if they aren’t in the new import.

Conclusion

By combining thoughtful preventive practices with manual cleanup techniques, and leveraging the Event Aggregator: Additional Options extension, you can keep your events calendar accurate and clutter-free with minimal manual effort.